Decolonizing Roman Imperialism : The Study of Rome, Romanization, and the Postcolonial Lens

Provides an intellectual genealogy of the debate over the paradigm of 'Romanization' developed by Haverfield in 1905 and subsequently subject to multiple attempts at revisionism. Explores the challenge posted to Roman historians by postcolonialism and invites readers to rethink the legacy of ancient Roman imperialism.

The framework of 'Romanization' developed by Haverfield in 1905 - that Romans 'civilized' their imperial subjects, particularly those in the 'barbarian' western provinces - remains hegemonic, notwithstanding multiple attempts at revisionism. It has been reasserted, rejected, or modified, but still frames the debate. Decolonizing Roman Imperialism investigates how the postcolonial challenge to decolonize the production of historical knowledge has motivated Roman scholars to question the paradigm of Romanization: to review its historiography, to seek fresh approaches, and to rewrite it. The book provides an intellectual genealogy of the debate valuable for every student of the Roman Empire and of Roman Britain, and invites them to rethink the legacy of ancient Roman imperialism.